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Why do Phalaenopsis leaves turn yellow?
Phalaenopsis orchid is an unpretentious plant that does not cause much trouble to the florist. But it happens that the leaves of the phalaenopsis turn yellow, in which case the flower needs immediate treatment.
Why do the leaves of the phalaenopsis orchid turn yellow
There are many reasons why leaves can turn yellow and die off. They can be conditionally divided into those associated with improper care, and those associated with pests or diseases.
Phalaenopsis leaves can turn yellow for several reasons.
The most common reasons include the following:
- Waterlogging. Excessive watering most often causes the death of phalaenopsis. Unlike other houseplants, the orchid does not require frequent watering. Its aerial roots are not immersed in the soil; they need oxygen for nutrition. If they are placed in water, the air will cease to flow to the flower, and the root system will begin to rot. Gradually, this process will cover the stem, and the plant will die.
- Insufficient watering. Moisture deficiency naturally affects the wilting and yellowing of plants.
- Sunburn. An exotic orchid loves shade. It must not be exposed to direct rays. The burn appears gradually depending on the amount of time the plant has spent in the light. The first symptoms are the appearance of a yellow border on the leaves.
- Temporary changes. Phalaenopsis sheds one bottom leaf every year. This is a normal process and requires no intervention.
- Excess fertilization. An overdose with specialized means can significantly harm the flower. It is necessary to strictly follow the instructions for the dilution of drugs and the frequency of their use.
- Pests. Indoor plants can be attacked by aphids or spider mites.
Noticing the unhealthy appearance of the plant, you need to immediately find out and eliminate the cause of the yellowed orchid leaves, otherwise it may die completely.
What to do to help the plant
Having established the root cause of yellowed leaf plates, you need to immediately eliminate it. In the case of waterlogging, the roots must be dried and, if the decay process has begun, cut off the affected areas. Further watering is carried out only when the substrate and the walls of the container are dry.
Do not water the orchid in cases of condensation on the walls of the pot, obvious waterlogging of the bark and bright green color of the roots.
If the plant is in direct sunlight or bright light, move it away from a window or darken the glass.
If you find pests, use specialized products that are sold in flower shops. When using them, strictly follow the instructions.
Phalaenopsis orchid is undemanding to care for, and it is not so difficult to cope with its cultivation. But if, nevertheless, the plant begins to die, then you need to react immediately to save the green pet. Otherwise, the process may be irreversible.